YouTube is a go-to app for many Google TV users. However, sometimes YouTube fails to work properly, with videos not loading or frequent buffering. These YouTube issues can be frustrating but are often easy to fix with some basic troubleshooting. This article will provide 4 tips to help diagnose and resolve common YouTube problems on Google TV models. With a few simple steps, you can get YouTube working again and resume streaming your favorite videos.
How to Fix YouTube Not Working on Google TV
1. Check Your Internet Connection
The most common cause of YouTube issues on Google TV is an unstable or slow internet connection. YouTube requires a minimum of 1.5 Mbps download speed to stream video smoothly in standard definition. For HD quality, you need 5+ Mbps.
If speeds are consistently below 1.5 Mbps, YouTube will struggle. Try restarting your wireless router and modem - unplug them from power for 60 seconds, then reconnect. This often improves connectivity.
Also, consider moving your Google TV device closer to the router if possible or connecting directly via Ethernet cable. Improving overall WiFi coverage in your home can help as well.
2. Update the YouTube App
An outdated YouTube app version can lead to bugs and playback errors. Updating to the latest version may fix your issues.
To update the YouTube app on Google TV:
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From the home screen, select the Google Play Store app.
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In the top-right corner, select your Profile icon.
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Select Manage apps and games.
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Select Updates.
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If an update is available for the YouTube app, select Update.
Be sure to update your other video streaming apps as well. Keeping apps updated takes just a moment and prevents many problems.
3. Clear YouTube App Cache & Data
Over time, corrupted cached data and cookies can accumulate in the YouTube app, leading to errors. Clearing this data forces the app to start fresh.
To clear the cache and data for the YouTube app:
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Go to Settings
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Select Apps > See all apps
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Select the YouTube app
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Select Storage & cache > Clear cache
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Return to the YouTube app info page
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Select Storage & cache > Clear storage > Clear all data
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This will reset the app and require re-login.
Clearing the cache and app data is an easy fix for a wide range of issues. Be sure to try this before more advanced troubleshooting.
4. Factory Reset Google TV
If you still can't get YouTube working after trying the above, a factory reset of your Google TV device may be necessary. This will erase all data and settings and restore your device to like-new condition.
To factory reset Google TV:
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Go to Settings
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Select System > About > Reset
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Select Factory data reset
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Select Erase everything
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Confirm on the pop-up prompt
Once finished, you'll have to reconfigure WiFi, login to apps, and customize settings. So be sure to back up data beforehand. Factory resetting as a last resort often resolves stubborn issues.
Conclusion
With some focused troubleshooting, you should be able to pinpoint why YouTube is malfunctioning on your Google TV and implement a fix. Start with easier steps like checking internet connectivity and app updates. For any issues that continue even after trying all methods, you may need assistance from Google support. Provide details on your specific symptoms and troubleshooting already attempted.
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